Glossies of the Future

Sadly glossy fashion magazines are going by the wayside. Tablets, smartphones, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, apps- there are hundreds of new ways to get your fashion fix at your fingertips! I’ve put together a list of my recent favorite blogs and Instagram accounts that I follow. Bloggers I Love

nycpretty.com Christine Bibbo Herr is a stylist, spokesperson, and self proclaimed “fitness fanatic” in New York City. Besides her long list of fashion credentials, she also happens to be my elementary school BFF and a great source of inspiration and encouragement for The Small Town Stylist. Even back then our tastes were unique. I’m more classic and preppy while Christine is eclectic and girly! I love her use of bold colors, sparkle and prints, and she’s alway mixing in a bit of 80’s nostalgia in a cool and modern way. Whether she’s doing yoga, surfing the waves, or hosting an event in NYC, she is always uniquely styled and inspiring to me!

maskcara.com I first started following makeup artist, Cara, on Pinterest. I don’t think I wear a lot of makeup, but I still am a bit of a makeup junkie (especially anything from Bobbi Brown). Cara does some amazing things with makeup and shading- she’s a true artist. I love her Makeover Mondays. And she gives links to the items she uses so I get introduced to new products I might not find locally. Follow her on Pinterest too.

Un_fancy.com I’m a big fan of Caroline. She’s been mentioned on this blog before. Every three months she created a capsule wardrobe — a mini wardrobe of 37 (her magic number) versatile pieces that she loves. Then she blogs about the outfits — real, everyday, unfancy outfits — using only clothes from her current capsule wardrobe. And along the way she shares how she makes minimalism work for her closet. She just moved and is taking a break from blogging. In the meantime, I’m catching up on her old posts and trying to get closer to her minimalistic approach. But what I like best about the blog is it’s what works best for her- she’s not trying to convert anyone. Come back soon, Caroline.

whowhatwear.com Street style, fashion trends, celebrities. Just a generally good place to get some fashion inspiration and stay on top of the trends and industry news. The site is neat- not cluttered by tons of ads and pop ups-and I really like the Facebook page too.

stylecaster.com Another great site to get fashion news snippets, see some pics to get outfit ideas, and some celebrity and entertainment news too. You can shop what you see too, which can be fun- and dangerous! Also good to follow on Facebook.

Instagrammers I Love

@mrsbymrs Years ago I had the pleasure of working with Molly on a shoot for Bloomingdales. She was fun to work with then, and fun to follow on Instagram now. Besides her beautiful work as a makeup artist, back then she was creating unique handmade t-shirts and tops- now she’s got her own lifestyle website, mrsbymrs.com, where she sells her apparel and offers beauty advice. She’s even got celebrity clients like Reese Witherspoon. Seeing how’s she’s built her brand over the years, all while raising a family, is inspiring to me.

@annietaylordesigns Go to Annie’s Instagram account and look at all her images as a grid. It’s like a work of art in itself. The colors, the fonts- all  meticulously chosen by Annie. Talented graphic designer and a friend, she creates beautiful and unique stationary and invitations. But you can see from her Instagram that it’s not just her invitations that are so lovely- she loves to surround herself with beauty, from her home to her children to her wardrobe. I can’t wait to see what fun projects this mom and business woman takes on next!

@nycpretty My favorite posts are on Workout Wednesdays- talk about inspiration!

@eatdrinkmalt I get hungrier with every new post!

@sky_armory Makes me want to throw a big themed party every weekend!

@garbage I like to cyber stalk and see what Shirley Manson is up to.

Who are your favorite bloggers and Instagrammers? Share by commenting below or sending me an email at thesmalltownstylist.com.

Pack Like A Pro Without Sacrificing Style

I am a pro at packing efficiently without limiting my style, so I shared my tips and tricks with Sistina Giordano and Mike Cauchon on Bridge Street this week. These tips work for for me but they are great for all women and men, and even kids. The key is to be organized and do some planning, choose items that work together and do double-duty, and don't overpack. Choose the proper luggage first. My favorite bag I use is a hard bag with dual sides and a fold out garment bag. It holds so much and the best part is it’s the approved carry on size so you don’t have to check it. A guy might prefer a soft sided bag, like The Weekender by J. Crew- it’s like a sophisticated duffle bag.

I pack at least two days prior, then edit the day before.

Check the weather and consider the events I have planned (ex. wedding, party, beach day, etc.)

Create a checklist- I include items such as toiletries, phone chargers, etc. so I don’t forget at the last minute.

Lay everything out on the bed or a table so I can see it.

Choosing items that can do double duty and are versatile are the key. All items should be color coordinated so I can mix and match. For example, for a beach weekend, a button down shirt can be worn out with shorts and then again over a bathing suit as a cover up. A scarf can be used as an accessory with a dress but also as a shawl to keep me warm in the evenings. For men, remember just because it’s a suit doesn’t mean it has to be worn as one. Let's say you have a wedding weekend to attend-wear the pants with a dress shirt to the rehearsal dinner the night before and then with a jacket & tie for the wedding the next day.

Bulky items like jackets and jeans can be worn when traveling so they don’t need to be packed.

Packing tips:

Shoes and hard items go in first and sit at the bottom of the bag. I limit myself to two pairs of shoes-I wear one pair and pack the other. If I wrap the shoes in plastic bags I can use the bag later for dirty laundry.

Dry cleaning bags keep clothes from wrinkling and from bunching up as the bag shifts.

Maximize space by putting rolled up socks and smaller items inside shoes, or in the corners and nooks of the bag. Socks can also be put inside the cups of a bra.

Lay like items on top of each other and then roll up- saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Lay shirts, pants and dresses on top.

Any liquid items such as hairspray, hair gel, moisturizers, etc. I always put in ziplock baggies inside my bag so if they spill they won’t make a mess of my clothes.

I pack a smaller bag inside my suitcase in case I make purchases and need more space.

My carry on bag will include my valuables, medications and necessities like glasses, toothbrush and toothpaste, makeup and if possible a change of clothes in case of emergency or in case my checked bag gets delayed.

What are your most useful travel tips? Share them with me in the comments below or by email to thesmalltownstylist@gmail.com. (Unfortunately the segment is no longer available to watch online. Updated 7/6/17.)

June/July Issue Overview

The mission of The Small Town Stylist is to help women navigate big city fashion in a small town. If you've ever looked through a high fashion spread in Vogue and Harper's Bazaar and thought, "Who would ever wear this?" you are not alone. Even though it's not even summer in the real world, magazines are starting to talk about the fall collections in their Fall Season Preview issues. You will see celebrities and models wearing pieces from these collections at events even before they come out to the public. Look to these collections for inspiration and ideas to add to your wardrobe now- there's no reason to wait until fall to incorporate styles you like that are season appropriate. Here are some Fall 2015 trends to get into now:

• Graphic Prints- Geometric prints and color blocking were big on the runways, and for summer they will work in bright bold colors.
• The Sixties- I'm so glad to see this decades's styles come back into fashion. The 70's have been back for a couple of seasons, but I'm not really a fan. Micro minis, sheaths and micro dresses- I can totally get on board with these styles!
• Rock N' Roll Chic- If you know me you might not think this is my cup of tea, but I love the idea of working pieces like leather jackets, pointy boots and concert tees in with more classic pieces. Think Debbie Harry meets J. Crew.

Remember, just because there are new trends out there doesn't mean you need to abandon everything in your current wardrobe, especially the classics. And there are several trends from last season that continue to be strong like:

• Military Style Jackets- I recently acquired one I LOVE from Bounce in Armory Square by Free People. I pretty much haven't taken it off!
• Denim- It's everywhere still, including denim on denim and denim dresses. Even overalls are in, although that's a look I won't be sporting any time soon.
• Menswear inspired- I like the look of a fitted blazer or jacket over a tank and shorts.

I'm going to admit something- I haven't really been feeling inspired by what I've seen the past few seasons, so I've been sticking to more classics and trying to just update what I've already got with a few trendy, inexpensive pieces.

What trends excite you this season? Let me know in the comments below or send me an email at thesmalltownstylist@gmail.com.

My Magic Pill

In fashion there are many theories out there about the best formula for being stylish. It’s similar to the diet world- everyone wants to find that “magic pill” to make them skinny- or in this case, chic. My theory is “everything in moderation” and I try to incorporate that into everything in my life, including fashion. I love that these theories are out there to assist and inspire women, but not if they make us feel inadequate because we can’t live up to them or follow them perfectly. So I read them, I enjoy them and I take what I want from them- only what is useful and beneficial to my life. Like dieting and parenting and so many things in life, what works for me may not work for you- and that’s ok. Let’s inspire each other, support each other and encourage each other to be the best version of ourselves. That’s what fashion is all about- putting forth an image that represents your true self and that brings you confidence. And having fun with it, of course!

You remember Tim Gunn, from Project Runway fame? I love that guy and his book Tim Gunn’s Guide to Quality, Taste and Style. His 10 Essential Elements is a great guide to the basics every girl should have in her closet.

I recently saw a post on a fashion site I follow, whowhatwear.com, titled How to Create a 5-Piece French Wardrobe and Change Your Life. Let’s face it, the word "Parisian" is synonymous with chic, especially when it comes to fashion. But reading through the “Basics List” cracked me up. Leather pants and stillettos? Not in my small town and not for my lifestyle right now. So like I said, everything in moderation, and there are some great ideas here to incorporate into my wardrobe.

If you’ve read any of my posts you know a lot comes back to organization. I admit to being a type-A personality and that includes my closet. I’m working on letting go a bit. But if you are looking for a guide on how to organize your wardrobe, you should read I Have Nothing to Wear by Jill Martin and Dana Ravich. I’ve got a dog-earred and worn copy in my bookcase and it’s a great reference.

I’m loving Un-fancy.com and it’s been all over the fashion sites the past few weeks as the trendy way to get dressed. The theory is to create a Capsule Wardrobe of 37 pieces. But what I love about blogger Caroline is that she talks about what works for her and says there are no steadfast rules, just what feels right for you. On her blog she writes, “And honestly? It’s not about a number. The point is to try something new if you’re unhappy with your current closet situation. If 37 isn’t your thing, find a number that’s right for you.” She gets it.

There’s a lot of great information and inspiration out there, but it can get overwhelming. My goal on this blog is to share what works for me, and hopefully it resonates with you. And if not, that’s ok, because everyone is different. Take what you read, use what works and discard what doesn’t. Everything in moderation, even advice from The Small Town Stylist, right?

Share what works for you with me by leaving a comment below, sending me an email or posting a message on Facebook.

Fashion Hacks

Let’s face it- fashion emergencies happen to everyone- don’t freak out! Today on Bridge Street, I gave co-host Sistina Giordano a few clever solutions to tricky problems. It’s a great idea to carry an emergency kit in your purse or car,  like the one I featured from Pinch Provisions available through J. Crew. But here are some easy substitutes and hacks to help you get through.

You are at a special event when your earring falls out and you lose the back. A pencil eraser will help hold your earring in place.

Double sided tape is great for many things- I keep it in my car for emergencies. In a pinch, it fixes falling hemlines, removes lint, and it keeps a low cut neckline in place.  And if you also ever find yourself wearing a pair of shoes that are a little too big, just put a few pieces of these at the soles of your feet to prevent slipping and sliding.

Speaking of uncomfortable shoes, are blisters a problem? Try applying deodorant--to your feet. Apply a gel formula to areas where shoe straps dig in to prevent friction and create an extra layer of protection for your feet.

Has this ever happened to you? You are getting dressed for a night out and when you pull your shirt over your head you get deodorant stains on it? Or makeup? No problem. Baby wipes are great! Even though my kids have been out of diapers for years, I still keep them in my house and in my car. Also dryer sheets remove stains in a pinch, and they are also good to kill clothing static cling or staticy hair.

Another way to get rid of static cling- spray some hairspray.

Super glue is great! Put a dot of super glue on a loose bead or sequin that you don’t have time to sew back on.

Need to iron a shirt cuff or collar in a pinch- use your hair straightening iron!

Scuffed your black heels or shoe soles? Use a Sharpie to fill it in. This also works if you’ve chipped a dark manicure.

Here’s one my mom taught me: clear nail polish keeps a run in your tights from getting worse.

This is one I had never heard of but think is great: In a pinch, the edge of a matchbook can double as a nail file.

If you're out and about when you realize that you forgot the all-too-important deodorant step, freshen up by wiping down your underarms with a damp towelette, then patting some hand sanitizer in the area. Since the gel's antibacterial, it'll help kill any bacteria that may linger.

Missed the show but don't want to miss any of your hacks? Click here to watch the segment. What are your best fashion hacks and emergency tips? Share them with me in the comment below, on Facebook or by email.

I am a Work In Progress

Know the proverb about the shoemaker’s children going barefoot? That’s me. So despite my insights on this blog and advice on Bridge  Street, I’m still feeling pretty unorganized in the wardrobe department.  It’s not just the seasons that are transitioning, but my life is too. In a few weeks I go from being a professional with regular office hours to working from home and hanging with my kids for the summer. My wardrobe needs to adjust, and I’m not feeling inspired about it. I’m at the point that I talked about on Bridge Street where I go to my closet and feel like I have nothing to wear, so I grab my old standard jeans and tee and feel so-so about it. I know better. I KNOW THAT’S NOT HOW IT SHOULD BE! But just like everyone else, I got so busy with life and stuff that I let it go and now it will take a bit of effort to get organized. So I’m challenging myself to walk the walk- not just talk the talk. Over the next few weeks I’m going to go through my Wardrobe 101 steps and document everything. And if I can do it, so can you. Do you feel like I do? Have you been thinking about doing this but have been putting it off? There is no better time than now! Follow along the next few weeks and let’s do this together.

This week I’ve be purging my closet of items that don’t fit properly, are damaged beyond repair, or are out of season or out of style. Since I haven’t had a large chunk of time to do this, I’ve been doing it little by little, like when I put the clean laundry away or when I’m getting dressed in the morning and put on something I hate-I just made a donate and a toss pile in my closet. At the end of the week, I brought a big bag to the Rescue Mission. (I even inspired my husband to do the same thing with his closet!) I have very little time lately to flip through my fashion magazines, so when I see something I like online I pin it on Pinterest- takes a few seconds and in a few weeks when I get more time to look back at what I’ve pinned  I will be able to figure out what my personal style will be for the season. If you don’t already, start a Pinterest account for yourself and make a Spring/Summer 2015 board, just like mine.

I’m not going to beat myself up about it- this happens to everyone. That’s what The Small Town Stylist is all about- helping women (myself included) to be the best version of themselves and have their wardrobe and image express who they truly are to the world.  So let’s get started!

Be sure to keep me updated on your progress by commenting below, sending me a message on Facebook or posting pictures on Instagram with the hashtag #thesmalltownstylist.